Take Five: Tyrone McKinney (BDPA New York)

BDPA provides its members with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills in a comforting environment. One person who has taken full advantage of the career-building opportunities in BDPA is Tyrone McKinney. Tyrone is currently serving as president of BDPA New York ... one of the largest chapters in the nation!

We recently asked Tyrone to participate in our Take Five interview series.

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Tyrone McKinney

1. How did you get involved with BDPA? I was asked to do an UNIX overview in 2000.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? Educating our community on new and emerging technologies.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? I would like to see more new media and emerging technology companies support BDPA.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? Your joining a like-minded community of technology enthusiasts and professionals.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? Your donation will help to insure that more of our youngsters get involved in technology careers.

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I encourage all of our readers to help Tyrone grow the programs, scholarships and services offered by BDPA New York chapter. One immediate way you can support is through a secure online donation to the chapter's HSCC scholarship program!

Take Five: LaDonna Crum (BDPA Greater Birmingham)

BDPA provides its members with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills in a comforting environment. One person who has taken full advantage of the career-building opportunities in BDPA is LaDonna Crum. LaDonna is currently serving as president of BDPA Greater Birmingham chapter ... one of the fastest growing chapters in the nation!

We recently asked LaDonna to participate in our Take Five interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I originally heard of BDPA in 2003 as a recent graduate of Franklin University (Columbus, Ohio). But I didn’t get the opportunity to join at that time. However, a co-worker invited me to a BDPA program meeting when I moved to Birmingham, AL. I joined BDPA after this meeting. A little later I became the chapter's High School Computer Competition (HSCC) Coordinator. I served in that role from 2004-2006.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - My favorite part of working with BDPA is the personal growth. BDPA gives me the opportunity to communicate with other IT professionals. At the same time I have the opportunity to learn from these professionals. Also, BDPA afforded me the opportunity to move into a leadership role and lead our local chapter. I have expanded my networking circle on a local, regional and national level since becoming part of BDPA.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - The future evolution I would like to see in BDPA is the overall growth of the organization on a national level. I would like to see BDPA as a primary Information Technology forum for our industry and community throughout the United States. For instance, I would like to see a greater connection between BDPA and government officials at both the federal and municipal levels.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - BDPA is an investment in your personal growth. You will have the opportunity to network with other IT professionals; give back to your community; grow in terms of your technical and professional skills and an improved opportunity for career enhancement.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) - Your donation benefits students in our community by exposing them to the world of information technology. This will contribute to a greater future for them in the workforce and in our community.

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I encourage all of our readers to help LaDonna grow the programs, scholarships and services offered by BDPA Greater Birmingham. One immediate way you can support is through a secure online donation to the chapter's HSCC scholarship program!

Related articles

• BDPA iRadio Show - March 25, 2014
• Message from BDPA Greater Birmingham President

Take Five: Jeffry Kimble (BDPA New York)

BDPA New York is the 2-time defending 'BDPA Chapter of the Year' because of its demonstrated excellence in delivering programs, scholarships and services to its stakeholders over the past two years. The untold story of this remarkable local chapter is a quiet leader named Jeffry Kimble. Jeffry served as president for more years (2000-2005) than anyone else in the 30 year history of BDPA New York chapter.

I served with Jeffry during the six years he was on the national BDPA board of directors. I always admired him because he came prepared and he was willing to roll up his sleeves and do the work. In his corporate career Jeffry is an experienced Capacity Planner with a record of innovation who is known for versatile performance resulting in enhanced organizational effectiveness.

This blog was pleased when Jeff (Twitter: @jeffryk) agreed to be part of our 'Take Five' Interview Series!

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I was invited to participate early in my career by a co-worker. She was was one of three African Americans at a fortune 100 company working in 'data processing' (now called 'information technology'). Her IT career was a beacon for many of us because she wasn't relegated to working at the Help Desk or in the print pool or the tape library. Anyhow, she was a member of the Northern New Jersey Chapter when I joined BDPA in 1984. The chapter used to meet in East Orange, New Jersey during those days.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - There is a tremendous diversity of experiences among BDPA members. This allowed me to live one of BDPA's earliest themes, 'Growth through Professional Association'. I have met people who helped me shape my career. It is through BDPA program meetings that I learned about a wide range of technologies that enabled me to excel with new job responsibilities in comparison to my co-workers who were not BDPA members.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - BDPA has to embrace newer technologies sooner. I would like to see local chapters aggressively embrace new technology. History has shown over and over how early adopters of technology have been rewarded. Second, the organization needs to do more to recognize BDPA members. Finally I think that BDPA can do more to encourage mobile application development ... why not hold a contest?
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - This $100 is a tiny amount to pay in comparison for the opportunities offered by BDPA membership. One year of program meetings hosted by our BDPA New York chapter is intellectually equivalent to a 3-credit college level course in IT. BDPA provides face-to-face networking opportunities ... not just links on a website. Members get the opportunity to develop skills in leadership roles. This prepares them for future advancement within their career paths.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? - We have to invest in our own future. The High School Computer Competition (HSCC) students of today will be the innovators and employers of tomorrow.

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I encourage you to share your thoughts, insights or comments on Jeffry's 'Take Five' interview. Another way to honor Jeffry is to make a secure online donation in support of college scholarships for BDPA New York HSCC students.

Take Five: Dwana Franklin-Davis (BDPA St. Louis)

I met Dwana Franklin-Davis at the 2012 BDPA Technology Conference in Baltimore, Maryland. She is the president-elect for BDPA St. Louis and she is on fire about the prospects for her chapter. Dwana is a manager with MasterCard Worldwide. She agreed to share her thoughts as part of our 'Take Five' interview series:

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I joined BDPA as a student member of the Chicago Chapter while pursuing my undergraduate degree at Purdue University in computer science. I was not able to participate in the programming events of the chapter since I was away at school, but was excited to see the benefits and opportunities that were available to minorities in information technology through the chapter. I joined the St. Louis Chapter in 2009, and was elected to the Executive Vice President position in 2012.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - I have many favorite parts about working with BDPA. Being part of the executive team of the St. Louis Chapter has given me the opportunity to continue to grow and enhance my leadership skills outside of the work place. In addition, I have the opportunity to create programming opportunities to enhance the professional, technical and leaderships skills of the membership. Likewise, I have increased my professional network, not just in St. Louis, but also nationally through my active participation in the local Chapter and at the national conference.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would be interested in seeing more student presence at the college level. Whether it be student chapters or an easier connection for college students to local chapters, I think increased opportunity would benefit both BDPA and our future IT leaders.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - BDPA offers a wealth of opportunities to the Black IT professional. Whether someone is interested in developing or enhancing their skills, networking with other IT professionals and executives, or contributing to STEM education through philanthropic endeavors, BDPA is the premiere organization for Blacks in IT.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? - The need to bridge the digital divide for Blacks “from the classroom to the boardroom” still exists. It’s United Way At-Work Campaign time, so remember to select BETF as your donation designation.

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The BDPA Education and Technology Foundation seeks to raise $5,000 in college scholarships for the HSCC team trained by BDPA St. Louis chapter. Please make a small donation in support of our cause!

Take Five: Sharrarne Morton (BDPA Washington DC)

Many have argued that BDPA is the 'best kept secret' in the IT industry and within the Black community. Few have taken steps to shine the light on BDPA programs and services as well as Sharrarne Morton. Sharrarne began her BDPA career as a media manager for our local BDPA chapter in Washington DC. She supported the creation of a television show, 'Popular Technology' featuring local and national BDPA executives. BDPA is looking for corporate sponsorship to produce over a dozen episodes of that television show in 2013. Sharrarne is a faculty member at Prince George's Community College as well as the owner of her own company, Morton Media.

Sharrarne demonstrated her masterful public relations and marketing skills as the 'mistress of ceremonies' for the 2012 National BDPA Technology Conference held earlier this year in Baltimore.

We asked Sharrarne to share her insights as part of our 'Take Five' Interview Series.

Here is what she had to say:

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I was introduced to BDPA by Perry Carter. He was at an event that I was hosting to celebrate the kickoff of a new show that I was executive producing called, "It Takes A Village." He told me about the BDPA organization and asked if I would be interested in interviewing a few BDPA members for the show. I told him that I would. Shortly thereafter, I invited BDPA Past President Gina Billings and Tec-Masters CEO Marvin Carroll as guests on the show. I've been involved with BDPA ever since!
2. What do you see as the biggest benefit of your BDPA membership? - The biggest benefit of my BDPA membership is being exposed to some of the best and brightest African Americans in the country. I'm not a techie, so I was unfamiliar with the STEM world and the role that African Americans play within STEM. And, unfortunately, there are no news shows that highlight the incredible things that African Americans are doing in STEM. Thankfully, BDPA has exposed my family and I to a whole new world of Black scientists, chemists, engineers and mathematicians. Now, both of my children want to major in a STEM field when they go to college. I have also exposed my English and journalism students to the STEM world. It's been a win-win!
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see BDPA increase student membership and do more to increase awareness for students who may not be majoring in STEM, but whose field will eventually coincide with STEM, e.g., media and technology. Many students (and people in general) are intimidated by STEM. Perhaps BDPA can implement programs that will help lessen the "scare of math and science" for students, and in turn, increase student membership.
4. What would you like Corporate America to know about BDPA? - I would like Corporate America to know that BDPA is the best place from which to recruit and hire the best workforce in the world.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? - My advice would be that if you want the best return on your investment (ROI), as well as a sound investment in the future of our children and their success, a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation beats any stock or bond, hands down!

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Please contact us by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) if you want to learn more about being a sponsor for the Popular Technology television show! Also, feel free to reply to this post if you have anything you want to say to (or about) Sharrarne's interview.

Take Five Interview: Beverly Place (Quest Diagnostics)

Beverly Place is a certified IT Six Sigma Black Belt employed by Quest Diagnostics. She has been a BDPA member for the past six years ... most recently serving in a leadership position with our BDPA New Jersey chapter. She agreed to be a participant in our ongoing 'Take Five interview series'.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I became involved with the organization through my employer, Quest Diagnostics. I became aware of BDPA back in 2006 when Quest Diagnostics became a corporate sponsor. Several employees of Quest Diagnostics were provided with corporate memberships into BDPA. I did my research and ultimately begin submitting extracts to be a presenter at the annual national conferences. I have had the opportunity to be a presenter at least 5 times since joining BDPA. I am also proud to have been nominated as President-Elect for the chapter in 2011.
2. What do you see as the biggest benefit of your BDPA membership? - The most valuable asset that I have experienced is the opportunity to network with such a large group of talented and well-connected individuals. It also provides a resource for increasing one's knowledge by participating in the various workshops. Lastly, BDPA conferences and the overall participation keeps an IT Professional aware of what the market needs and changes are.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see the organization partner with other organizations that are not necessarily IT-focused but instead serve as a Talent Management function. By doing this, I think that the participants of BDPA can use their membership to better connect with and become aware of jobs that are or might become available in their arena. I think also that by partnering with other organizations (e.g., National Association of Black Accountants or International Institute of Business Analysis) we will give members other avenues to advance their careers.
4. What would you like Corporate America to know about BDPA? - Overall, I would like Corporate America to be aware of the tremendous pool of talent that makes up the BDPA organization. Corporate American should embrace and partner with BDPA in order to find a direct connection for resources that might be required for their organization. Finally, I would like to see Corporate America 'Embrace Diversity' in numbers and not just words.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? - My simple advise to donors would be that this is an opportunity to 'get what you pay for'. Good talent is hard to find but by making the investment, there is benefit for all parties involved.

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You can find Beverly on the LinkedIn Network or the BDPA Groupsite.

Take Five: Deborah Chambers Chima (Chambers Consulting Group)

This blog is proud to continue the 'Take Five' Interview Series with an experienced Information Technology executive -- Deborah Chambers Chima.

Deborah has a combined experience of over thirty years as a human capital developer. She spent 23 years serving as a corporate trainer and team leader both internationally and domestically. For the last seven years she has been a successful business owner. Her goal is to help leaders improve their collaborative style when leading others in order to achieve the level of influential leadership that is so needed in today's challenging workplace. She is a published author with book called, Choose To Lead. She is a powerful advocate for the Executive Protégé Program between BDPA and the Information Technology Senior Management Forum.

Deborah gave an outstanding presentation at the 2011 National BDPA Technology Conference on topic of “21st Century Leadership Skills for Technologists.”

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - In 2004 I joined the BDPA Career Coach group and soon became the lead coach. We have offered workshops, resume reviews, and career coaching services over the years. Although the group is no longer in existence, I have found tremendous value in continuing to serve as a coach and workshop presenter to the BDPA membership.
2. What do you see as the biggest benefit of your BDPA membership? - I have been afforded the opportunity to help people realize their goals by becoming a recognized, valued and trusted partner at all levels within the organization.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see BDPA truly become the premier association for IT career professionals by implementing a 3 year strategic plan that strengthens every chapter in the areas of membership and financial stability. A regional linking of thriving chapters will allow the national voice of the organization to be a greater hiring resource for corporate partners.
4. What would you like Corporate America to know about BDPA? - BDPA is a great resource for sourcing talented IT professionals who have a passion for demonstrating innovative and insightful solutions to business challenges.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? - A BETF contribution allows the organization to support, mold and shape the minds of young people who are hungry for an opportunity.

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Deborah can be found in a number of cyberspace locations including her own blog, Facebook and Twitter. Reach out and let her know what you think of her 'Take Five' interview answers!

Take Five: Julia Josefina Berg (BDPA Boston)

Our blog tries to share insights on BDPA from a variety of perspectives. BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) exists to raise money to support BDPA programs, scholarships and services. Sometimes it helps to hear from those who benefit from BDPA.

For example, Julia Josefina Berg is a young woman who participated as a member of the 2004 national high school computer competition (HSCC) team trained by BDPA Boston chapter. She went off to college to major in Interactive Media and Game Development. Now she is working for Deloitte.

BETF is very happy that Julia agreed to participate in its 'Take Five' interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - My freshman year in high school I enrolled in a 4-year Computer Programming course part of the Rindge School of Technical Arts program at Cambridge Rindge and Latin. My high school was predominately minority students with low numbers in technology courses. While this was frustrating at times, it also allowed me to have a lot of 1 vs. 1 attention with my good friend, mentor, and teacher Ms. Williams, whom encouraged me to challenge myself to starting my own web design company and finding other minorities interested in pursuing computer science careers. It was she who sent me information about my local BDPA chapter and helped me to enroll in the Saturday training courses.
2. Did BDPA have any influence on your college or career choices? - Definitely, BDPA gave me exposure to different careers and companies that were interested in minority women in the computer science field. It helped me realized that my skills were in high demand and that with continued dedication in my education, I could have a successful career. I also found that my mentors in my Saturday courses provided me with real-world examples of how they used the technical skills they taught me, which made me explore the different career paths computer science could lead to.
3. What do you like most about being a technology consultant with Deloitte? - My favorite part about being a technology consultant with Deloitte is the fact that I am constantly challenged; I have worked in 6 states the last year, each time with a completely different team, client, and technical problem to solve. Part of what I loved most about the HSCC was being thrown a challenge and having to work as a team under pressure to solve a problem, my career choice compliments this aspect completely.
4. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA's STEM-based training? - I would like to see some remote training available for those in areas without current chapter teams, perhaps an online mentorship program that would allow mentors like myself who are unable to commit to one location, to help students with AP computer science prep, technical skill building, HSCC training, etc.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BDPA Education and Technology Foundation? - BDPA taught me that where you are from and the culture you are raised in has a lasting impact in establishing your identity, but should not limit your success. I credit my college scholarship and current career in technology consulting, to Ms. Williams, and all of my BDPA minority mentors in technology that both paved the way for me, as well as taught me the important of continuing the tradition.

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BDPA has trained thousands of young people like Julia over the years. We could use your support if we hope to train thousands more in the coming weeks, months and years.

Take Five: Kai Dupé (BDPA Dallas)

Kai Dupé is a brother who has been advocating for Blacks in technology via his articles, blogs, presentations and online radio shows. Kai agreed to participate in our recurring 'Take Five' interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I actually do not remember how I got involved with BDPA. I know that my first interaction with BDPA was via BDPA Dallas vice president of member services Donna Tyler. She sent out a request for speakers. She told me that she received my name from you (Wayne Hicks) as a result of my presentation done at the National Conference that year. I think that may have been 2007 when the conference was in Washington DC. Once I connected with BDPA and you that was it for me. BDPA for Life!
2. What do you see as the biggest benefit of BDPA membership? - In my mind the biggest benefit of BDPA is the community. One of the main challenges our people face when choosing a career in Information Technology whether it be in corporate America or on the college campus is isolation. As as software developer for over 25 years, I have always been the only Black software developer on the team and it has been no different on most of my corporate positions since college. This problems persists today. The ability to connect with a community of Black IT professionals, and take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experience of those who have taken the same journey is is the biggest benefit in my opinion.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see a move toward publishing. BDPA publishing. :-) The same way BETF initiated the BDPA iRadio program, I would like to see information products based on the years of learning from the programs related to encouraging African Americans to embrace technology and technology careers.
4. What would you like the Black community to know about BDPA? - I would like MORE of the Black community to be AWARE that BDPA exists. I am baffled by this. But as I speak, mentor and connect with our people and direct them to connect with BDPA more times than not, they are not aware of BDPA. This is unfortunate. I work very hard to make sure that our people who are interested in careers in technology locate their local chapter and take advantage of all of the good work that BDPA is doing.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - My advice would be to donate. We have many problems and issues in the Black community for sure. But I consider the digital divide to be our generation's civil rights issue. We must close this gap. Technology gives us access to the economic engine of this country and we cannot continue to lag. No organization is more equipped and more dedicated to closing this gap than BDPA. My advice would be to give and give often.

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Share some love with Kai in the COMMENTS section!

Take Five: Kendall Norris (BDPA Middle Tennessee)

BDPA Middle Tennessee welcomed a new chapter president earlier this year. Kendall Norris (Deloitte) is working with his leadership team to take the chapter to the next level. Kendall took a moment to be part of our ongoing 'Take Five' Interview Series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I have been involved for ~9 years and joined the organization while working at EDS, via corporate sponsorship.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - Working on, or developing, programs that encourage youth to look at IT career opportunities.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see our name, Black Data Processing Associates, changed to Black Data Professionals Association. I believe this change would take advantage of the current Big Data trend and enhance the brand image of BDPA, while keeping the acronym in place.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - I believe BDPA offers the best value in the industry for individuals seeking networking, professional development, entrepreneurial and volunteer opportunities.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - There are many professionals in BDPA that are dedicated to the organization’s mission. A donation to BETF is an investment in the advancement of information technology and the future IT leaders.

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Share some love with BDPA Middle Tennessee chapter president Kendall Norris!

Take Five: Temitope Sonuyi (BDPA Los Angeles)

Temitope Sonuyi is a remarkable man. Temitope earned his masters in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A few years ago he decided to start his own business ... so he founded Duffled. Duffled is a text messaging (SMS) marketing tool.

In any case, Temitope is making his mark as an enthusiastic volunteer instructor at the weekend computer camp sessions hosted by BDPA Los Angeles chapter. He has supported the training of students that represent Los Angeles in regional and national computer competitions.

We asked Temitope to participate in our 'Take Five' Interview Series:

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Temitope Teaches!




1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I heard about it through the friend of a friend. I got connected with the local chapter and volunteered for helping out with the program.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - There are so many multi-layered and rewarding aspects of working with BDPA but to pick a couple I would say:
   • Seeing young minds become skilled in the craft of web programming and then teamwork. It is rewarding to be a part of the enlightenment process with the kids.
   • Seeing the competitive and highly skilled teams perform at the national convention.
3. Can you share a 'success story' about any of your past HSCC students? - My involvement with the program has been over the past two years ... so we are still seeing the kids stories being written. I do think we will have some success stories from our students in the past two years; but as of now we are a work in progress.
4. What would future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA's STEM-based training? - More collaborative efforts during the training period prior to the competition (Either between programs (sharing lesson plans and strategies) or students (question/answer forum thing).
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - Give till you can't give no more.

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BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) appreciates Temitope for taking time to share his insights for this blog post. Our hope is that those of you reading this 'Take Five' interview will be inspired enough to support the college scholarship fundraising currently underway for BDPA Los Angeles chapter student members.

Take Five: Joe McMahon (BDPA Hampton Roads)

Joe McMahon is one of only two people in the history of BDPA to be the founder of two different BDPA chapters. He agreed to participate in our 'Take Five' interview series:

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1. How did you get involved in working with BDPA? - While serving as faculty at Southern University as a Navy Officer in the ROTC program, I received a request from two BDPA members in the Baton Rouge area to help launch a new BDPA chapter. Based on my activities in the community, I believed the mission of BDPA would provide the catalyst for increasing the technology based workforce opportunities. Within a year after launching the Baton Rouge Chapter, I retired from the military and transferred to Virginia Beach where I founded a second chapter, BDPA Hampton Roads.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - The National BDPA Technology Conference featuring the professional workshops, high school computer competition, and IT Showcase is a tremendous outlet for sharing ideas, showcasing talent and networking across the country. It is a great honor to have the Chief of Naval Operations and former Assistant Secretary of the Navy accept our invitation to serve as keynote speakers.
3. Tell us about a defining moment in your life? - My most defining moment was discovering the value of being prepared vice getting prepared. When opportunity knocks it's looking for someone. Many years ago, I lost out on an a career defining opportunity I truly desired, but rightfully didn't deserve. Despite having an equal opportunity to prepare, I did not fully invest the time and energy required to be the best candidate. Someone else was better prepared and received the opportunity. Since, I've worked to target specific areas of interest and consistently improve my skills. Since, I've enjoyed retiring from one successful career and happily moved on to a second career.
4. Who is your hero and why? - My mother raised two kids as a single parent. Each and everyday, I'm amazed at how much I appreciate her lessons on life and the safe haven she provided. Our lives were much simpler than I enjoy today. However, the foundation she provided was strong.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - BDPA serves communities to provide technology based programs where students can build on the skills and immediately apply them to the needs of the workforce. BETF provides opportunities to lift students to next level through educational scholarships and funds for programs. BETF provides resources to help students throughout the US. Take the time to explore what BETF offers.

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By the way ... are you wondering who was the other person in BDPA history to be the founder of two chapters? Norman Mays! Norman is the founder of BDPA chapters in Washington DC and Cleveland.

Take Five: Pablo More (Orlando)

Originally Posted: 1/24/2010

Pablo More, president of BDPA Orlando chapter, is part of the new generation of leadership on the National BDPA Board of Directors. BDPA Orlando is the 21st largest chapter in the nation.

Pablo is one of those rare leaders who walks the walk. He has many ideas about ways that BDPA can improve ... and he volunteers his time, talent and energy to see those ideas implemented on both a local and national stage.

I'm pleased that Pablo agreed to participate in our Take Five interview series:

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1. How did you get involved in working with BDPA? - I first came into contact with BDPA through the BDPA Boston Metrowest chapter where I met Edwin Sapp (Aflac) and Tim Wilson (T.A. Wilson & Associates) at a Harvard University function in 1997. I was not very active in the chapter due to my full-time work and school schedule.
   
   I searched out BDPA when I moved to down to Orlando, Florida in July 2006. I found Bessie Peoples (Disney) and attended program meetings hosted by BDPA Orlando chapter. BDPA Orlando Chapter had about 3-4 program meetings a year at that time, typically one per quarter. Also to the general public the chapter was stagnant since there was not a whole lot of activities taking place.
   
   BDPA Orlando had a good team of committed folks, like Bessie and Jimm Middleton (Disney), who wanted to revive the chapter. Other leaders in the community who wanted to rejuvenate the chapter included Tonya Farquharson (Lockheed Martin), Glenn Brown (Lockheed Martin), JC Walker (Valencia Community College) and Haki Nkrumah (Umoja Consulting Group). I was a general member for my first two years in Orlando. I became chapter president in December of 2008 took over leadership and attended my first NBOD quarterly board meeting in November 2008.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - The most rewarding aspect for me is the opportunity to give back and see the results of those efforts. One of the best jobs that I had was that as a volunteer instructor for a neighborhood community center in Roxbury, MA where I taught a class of 25-30 students ranging in age from 25-75 on computer literacy. This was a night class held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from January thru May after work for two (2) hours.
   
   I felt more excited and got more nourishment from teaching that class after work than anything I did during the day at work. The reason being is that at work all your efforts and productivity goes to projects having to maintain or improve systems, reduce costs and increase profits. There is no human element factored in, you do not get to see how your work improves the quality of life or gives back to humanity.
   
   BDPA helps to fill the void that exists when you ask yourself, what good have I done? Whom have I helped? How can I give back to my community?
   
   A carpenter can see the fruits of his/her labor in that which he/she builds. A teacher can see the impact he/she has in the progress of their students. I am an IT professional. I need to see the fruits of my labor and know that it's had an impact beyond a company's bottom line.
   
   I believe the BDPA motto taking people from "classroom to the boardroom" provides us with a means to educate and give back to our communities, work with like-minded peers, grow professionally and stay connected and rooted in a cause that is bigger than just one of us and will have an impact beyond one's single life since we exists to establish and leave a legacy.
3. Tell us about a defining moment in your life? - There are many defining moments in my life but one that had a big impact was the death of my father and grandmother in 1996 ... less than three months apart. I loved them both but did not really appreciate them as much until they were both gone. I did not get to learn about my father's history from my father or my grandmother's history from my grandmother. There were opportunities before their deaths but there was always a "next time" in my mind.
   
   I learned more about my father at this wake then I did when he was alive. There were many people that came from all over to testify at his wake and pay their respects and say thank you. He helped so many and I did not know. I found that my sense of activism comes from him. He came from Havana, Cuba in the 1960's and worked to establish a life here in the states.
   
   My grandmother was born in southern Chile and was such a blessed soul, very religious and so very helpful and kind.
   
   I learned to appreciate the here and now, recognize that tomorrow is not guarantee to no one. Capture the history of your family do not wait, show love, understanding and appreciation always. Roots and culture is so very important!
4. Who is your hero and why? - My mother is my hero since she has grounded me and kept me focus on what is important in life. I came to this country from Chile with my mother back in 1978. We were welcomed by a huge blizzard with record snowfall that was hitting the Northeast at the time. My mother who only had a high school education is one of the wisest persons you will ever meet. She stressed education, discipline and hard work. She would always say remember where you come from an appreciate the opportunity that exists here in the U.S., take advantage and do the best that you can. We recognized that as immigrants nothing can compare to where we came from where running water, electricity, even a phone was a luxury that few had in the small town in Southern Chile. My mother took night classes to learn English and lead by example and she enrolled me in school. I can never thank my mother enough for all that she has done. I love her and appreciate her and recognize because of her actions and the lessons that she has taught that I need to do better and give back.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to BETF? - We are not alone in this world. We each have someone whom has helped us along the way. There is always someone whom is having a more difficult time, that can be helped by giving whether it be your time to a local BDPA Chapter as a volunteering or mentor, or to help with a program OR giving a donation to BETF. No donation is too small.
   
   We must recognize that there are many people whom are trying to achieve what you have ... an education, a job, a career ... and just need help. Please pay it forward today, do not wait. Do the following: (a) Donate to BETF; (b) get active in your local BDPA chapter; and (c) thank someone who has helped you. It is never too late to show appreciation.
   
   We are not alone in this world. Let us each work to make a difference and leave a legacy that makes us proud.

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This blog encourages its readers to use the COMMENTS option to share their thoughts on these interviews. Pablo shared some personal insights ... I hope that you share some BDPA-love in return.

Take Five: Barbara Allen (BDPA Cleveland)

BDPA is transitioning its governance to include regional representatives.  Barbara Allen became the first-ever BDPA Midwest Regional Vice President when she won the election held last month at the national conference in Chicago.

Barbara moved to Cleveland in January 2007 after spending the previous 27 years in northern California. She served as an officer in the past for both BDPA Bay Area and BDPA Cleveland chapter. We asked Barbara to share her insights as part of our 'Take Five' interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I worked as a software programmer analyst for Bank of America in California's East Bay when the BDPA Bay Area chapter was formed. I was invited to join.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - My favorite part of working with BDPA is the experience of continued learning, and sharing in the students' successes.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see more female students than we have now, and more support from corporations.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - You will have an opportunity to improve or increase your skills not only in IT but in communication and soft skills. Networking with others is also a great bonus, and you can bring what you learn from BDPA back to the job and utilize it. If you are seeking a job in IT, BDPA can help there as well.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to BETF? - I would remind people that even a small donation counts!

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It should be interesting to see how the advent of regional governance in BDPA works out over the coming years. Our best wishes go with Barbara as she takes on this new leadership challenge!

Take Five: Kelly Hill (BDPA Los Angeles)

BDPA is proud of its efforts to advance the careers of its members from 'the classroom to the boardroom'. One of real-life examples of that effort can be seen embodied in the person of Kelly Hill. Kelly is a Clark Atlanta University graduate (Class of 2008) who currently works for Lockheed Martin.

As a youngster Kelly represented BDPA Los Angeles chapter in the national high school computer competitions held in Chicago (2001), Orlando (2002) and Philadelphia (2003). She is a positive example of the power of our student information technology education & scholarship (SITES) program. Kelly was kind enough to participate in our Take Five interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I got involved in BDPA because my Aunt Brenda passed on a flyer that she received advertising free programming classes including visual basic and ASP.net. Although I knew nothing about those programming languages my mother encouraged me to go to the first class to see what it was all about. After that I was hooked.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - The most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA has been the relationships I've formed over the years. First, the long lasting relationships I formed with my teammates each year that I represented the Los Angeles chapter at the national HSCC championships. We are always in contact with one another updating each other on our career successes many of which have been made possible due to the education obtained during HSCC. Second, the networking relationships I've established every year at the annual conference. I always look forward to seeing the familiar faces from the prior year. Lastly, I enjoy chatting with the other chapters to learn some of their strategies on how they have penetrated their city so more people have exposure to BDPA. BDPA is like my second family. Its a small knit community of like-minded people.
3. Can you share a 'favorite memory' about any of your past BDPA conference experiences? - My favorite memory of BDPA has always been in Chicago during the programming part of the HSCC Competition. We had been given the programming problem and all the teams had started to work on the solution. We were about three hours in and you can see people pacing backing and forth, ties undone, stressing and I looked around and said to myself this is amazing. There are 24 African American teams working in their groups to solve a problem. It was the collective energy in the room. You could feel the brain power floating around the room. That is when I realized BDPA was special because I didn't know of another organization where I could be in the room with 100 young African American kids programming for eight hours. That is when I began to look forward to the conference every year because I knew that like-minded students would be there and that would be the common denominator.
4. What would future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA's STEM-based training? - I think that the written portion of the competition needs to be renamed and revamped. I don't think that Quiz Factory accurately prepares the kids for the written portion of the competition. I also don't think that the name "written competition" portrays what the students actually have to do. The whole written piece needs to be reevaluated because the scoring seems to be a bit off also. Also, I think that during training the kids need to look at BDPA as an organization that would benefit them after high school. The misconception is they compete for three years and then they forget about BDPA. I want the students to see that BDPA can be beneficial especially once they are looking for a job and also to expand their network.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - BDPA has done more than allow me to compete around the United States amongst other African Americans. BDPA has also taught me to be confident, to stand by my decisions, and how to use the strengths of each individual on a team to collectively solve a problem. The knowledge that I learned in high school set me apart from others and allowed me to have a competitive gain. I can honestly say BDPA has helped me get to where I am today. I currently work at Lockheed Martin as a Material Resources Planner. My brother, Clyde, who also competed in the national HSCC championship, is the Web Administrator for NSBE.  He currently works at Cal-State Fullerton Library as the IT help desk Lead. My teammate Jerich Beason is the IT Director for IT Security at Wackenhut Services. So I know that BDPA has influenced us and impacted our lives. So just know if you give a donation you are directly impacting our lives, helping us succeed, and helping us reach our future goals and we sincerely appreciate it!

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Kelly is a remarkable young woman. I suspect that she will become a BDPA chapter president at some point in her life. For now, I'm just grateful that she continues to be a strong role model for BDPA students in Los Angeles and around the nation!

Take Five: Jamesetta James (BDPA Greater Columbia)

Jamesetta James has worked the past few years as the national coordinator of the BDPA Youth Technology Camp (YTC).  Earlier this year she provided her review of the 2011 YTC experience in Chicago. She has had a positive impact on hundreds of young people over the years and we thought it would be good to hear from Jamesetta as part of our Take Five interview series:

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - My first involvement with BDPA was assisting Mildred Allen in coordinating the YTC presenters and workshops for the 2010 conference in Philadelphia.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - The most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA is seeing immediate results with the workshops that the students are involved in whether it be soft skills or developing new IT skills. The students are immediately equipped with knowledge that can be applied to their currents studies.
3. Can you share a 'success story' about any of your past HSCC students? - Although this is my first year working with the high school computer competition (HSCC) students from the Greater Columbia Chapter, the success I witnessed was how the veteran HSCC students embraced the new members of the team. Great leadership skills were displayed and one great lesson observed was that team work was always the focal point in their preparation for the 2011 HSCC competition.
4. What would future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA's STEM-based training? - STEM based programs are very isolated in how it operates for each BDPA chapter. Unfortunately, this problem exists for school districts as well. The change I would like to see is the way that the training is implemented. The STEM base training curriculum should be transparent in such that is the format used by all chapters. The universal repository of technology resources created by Zack Garbow is truly is an excellent starting point. To ensure that BDPA students are receiving the STEM training parallel to the school district STEM curriculum I think that partnerships should be formed between the school district or districts and the BDPA chapter.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - One advise for individuals, company's or corporation that are considering a donation to BETF is to visit one BDPA training class. They will witness immediate return on their investment. Seeing the skills that students, from all grade levels, gain through the training provided by the chapters will demonstrate why our donors should continue their support in BDPA's efforts.

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I appreciate Jamesetta for the work that she has been doing for BDPA on a local and national level. She recently joined a number of YTC students on a special edition of the BDPA iRadio Show. Click here to listen to the archive version of the Youth Technology Camp iRadio Show!

Take Five: Allison Aheart (BDPA Hampton Roads)

Allison Aheart is a BDPA leader with vision. She was the founder of a BDPA student chapter when she attended college in Virginia. Currently she serves as the BDPA Hampton Roads chapter president. She was a nominee for the National BDPA Vice President vacancy earlier this month. Although she didn't win the election I think it is fair to say that we will be seeing more of Allison in the coming months and years!

We asked her to become part of the Take Five interview series. Here is what Allison had to say:

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I became involved with BDPA as a college student. I was an IT major at Virginia Commonwealth University and wanted to align myself with like minded peers. I was able to get great advice regarding which IT courses and professors where the best. Additionally, in volunteering for BDPA at a career fair (BDPA had an information table setup) I was able to secure employment several months before graduating.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - My favorite part of working with BDPA is spreading the word about the organization. The most rewarding part is seeing our adult and student members reach their IT and professional goals by participating in our programs and training courses.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see BDPA embrace the future of digital technology, which we are currently doing through internet television and radio.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? A person should pay $100 for a membership which gives them access to a network of minority professionals, various local and regional programs that enhance technical and professional abilities. There is also help for entrepreneurs and job seekers through seminars and workshops.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - Give, because the future of OUR kids matter. The youth in minority communities are falling behind because they don't have immediate access to technology. Our youth need positive outlets to technical workshops and training courses. BETF funds our SITES/STEM programs, which helps our youth become involved.

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Please share some BDPA-Love with Allison!

Take Five: Monique Berry (BDPA Philadelphia)

National BDPA president-elect Monique Berry has been a leader for many years. She is now only a few months away from becoming the national president of the most dynamic association of African American Information Technology professionals in the universe.

We asked Monique to share some insights with us as part of our ongoing 'Take Five' interview series.

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1. How did you get involved in working with BDPA? - I wanted to network with people in the industry who may have had similar career experiences.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - Helping others reach there full potential. I enjoy working with the teens and helping them figure out who they are and what they want to do with their careers. I enjoy mentoring the college students and providing them with access to experienced professionals who can give them advise, guidance and real life examples of working in corporate America or as entrepreneurs. I am overjoyed each time a BDPA student receives a scholarship, is accepted to the college of their choice or is offered an internship from a BDPA sponsor.
3. Tell us about a defining moment in your life? I can't tell you about one defining moment without including two others. In no particular order of importance, adopting my oldest son at the age of 14, the births of my two other sons and each of their college graduations.
4. Who is your hero and why? - I'm not sure that I have a hero. I admire people who survive or overcome adversity.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to BETF? Make an investment in the future of technology, donate to BETF online now to help fund scholarships for talented and deserving students.

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Monique has shown herself to have the 'Midas touch' when it comes to successfully growing BDPA programs on both a local and national level. Please join this blog in wishing her nothing but success over the course of the next two years as she takes over as our incoming national president!

Take Five: Craig Brown (BDPA Dallas)

Dr. Craig Brown is a candidate for National BDPA Vice President. The elections will be held later this week. Dr. Brown has a 24 year career serving as an expert systems and database architect within leading technologies like Oracle, Oracle-PeopleSoft, SAP, IBM and Microsoft. His experiences are more particular to the Enterprise Resource Planning, Decision Support and Relational Database Management Systems technologies. He earned over 20 certifications within these technological areas and currently provides implementation and integration expertise along with a variety of other technological disciplines. He holds a BS in Computer Science as well as a Master's in Business and a Doctorate in Management Information Systems.

Dr. Brown agreed to participate in our ongoing 'Take Five' interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I originally joined the BDPA in 1996. A lady named Roxanne Clinton told me about the organization and I was amazed that a program like this existed at the time. The way I found myself starting a career within IT was not through a direct plan, so to be able to show others what I do and how I got there was something of great interest to me.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - My favorite activities are working with young people. College students, High School Students and New entries into the work force. These young people are usually very eager to learn and they soak up everything I tell them like sponge. My next favorite part is giving presentations to up and coming entrepreneur’s, existing entrepreneur’s and people that are just curious about entrepreneurship. I have presented at the national conference in previous years in this area and these are truly the high points of my BDPA career.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - I would like to see the BDPA be more active in the more advanced areas of technology. There are quite a few opportunities within the IT arena particularly in the architecture and administration roles and high level design and development work spaces. A few of the HBCUs are also a little behind at offering up to date (CIS, MIS, BIS) curriculum’s that will help add a few more minorities into these fields of study. I would like to bring my experiences to the organization and help make anyone that will listen way that can gain experiences with standards like Oracle EBS, SAP, IBM DB2, Oracle PeopleSoft and Microsoft SQL. I would like to then further this exposure into specialized areas like S>O>A>P, IT Auditing, Project Management (PMP) for IT functions. These areas can certainly use a boost of minority subject matter experts.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - I would tell all existing and new members that for the $100 membership dues the BDPA can provide:
   • A few different ways to educate and train, for those that are interested in learning within the IT arena.
   • Insights on career paths for entering into or shifting within the IT work space.
   • Help fill in the gaps caused by lack of experience and/or lack of training with affiliations with organizations like the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)
   • General Information about what is happening within the IT arena to continue to attract more members interested in this news.
5. Any advice for people considering donation to BETF? - I would advise anyone that donating to the BETF benefits not only students but BDPA chapters. The programs that I am aware of exist to assist its participants with educational and planning that can help start or maintain a career within the IT area. If anything you can become more computer literate. Since finance is the biggest obstacle between minority communities and educational programs and opportunities, a donation to the BETF is certainly one way around this obstacle.

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We encourage you to learn more about all of the 2011 national and regional BDPA candidates. Mostly, we encourage you to share some BDPA-Love for Dr. Brown. It takes gumption to put yourself on the line for service as a volunteer leader at a national level. I appreciate Dr. Brown for his willingness to do so ... and for taking the time to share his thoughts with us.

Take Five: Osedra Siler (BDPA Indianapolis)

Osedra Siler is a multi-talented IT professional currently employed by Eli Lilly & Company. Her skill sets include: Process Improvement, Change Management, Service Management, Project Management, Business Integration, Disaster Recovery testing and Security Access Management. She graduated in 2007 with a Information Systems degree from Florida A&M University.

I know Osedra has a passionate advocate for BDPA Indianapolis chapter ... particularly the youth education programs. She has worked for the past few years on the STEM-based training that the chapter provides to high school students.

Osedra agreed to participate in our ongoing 'Take Five' interview series.

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Osedra & 2010 HSCC Team

1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - In 2008, the VP of the Indianapolis chapter invited me to a meeting after telling me about the organization. I had just begun my first job out of college in January of 2008. I attended the monthly meeting and was very impressed with the work the organization was a part of (e.g. student programs, professional development and networking opportunities). I immediately joined the local chapter in Indianapolis.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA? - The most rewarding aspect of working with BDPA is the opportunity I have to be a positive and professional mentor and teach other minority high school students about computer programming, STEM opportunities (especially for the female students), and help them get internship as high schoolers and get into college. The first year I began working with the HSCC program the majority of students were males. Over the past two years that has changed and the female interests has increased which is awesome.
3. Can you share a 'success story' about any of your past HSCC students? - Actually many of my students have had the opportunity to participate in a paid summer internship (as a high school junior) with a major corporation working on real world projects, within the past two years. One of the students that intern in the summer of 2010, received a full paid 4 year scholarship to college as well.
4. What would future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA's STEM-based training? - I would like to see more innovative training ideas used to assist students to think out the box on what technology can be and do. Possibly, the students can build pieces of a software application (collectively) that can be sponsored by the BDPA organization and used as proof/demonstration of what the students actually learn throughout their training and can be viewed by any spectator outside the BDPA organization.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to BETF? - If you have the desire to help a minority students fulfill their dream to attend college, give back to the community to help it grow or give a student an opportunity to realize their potential; a donation to the BETF would be a great start. The BETF helps minority high school students learn & grow skills in STEM programs. These donations will assist each local chapter to fund youth programs that are 'FREE' to students. These programs gives students a multitude of benefits such as network with executives of major companies, IT professionals and other students around the world) that will help them become productive and positive role models in their communities. BETF definitely make a difference in student lives.

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BETF appreciates the kind words from Osedra ... however, it is obvious that she is the one making a difference in the lives of many young people .. even famous movie actors recognize Osedra's swagger!

Osedra is the future face of technology!